[Modification of the mutagenic effects of gamma radiation by heavy metal salts]

The effect of K2Cr2O7 and (CH3COO)2Pb on the mutagenic activity of gamma rays was studied by a micronucleus test in mouse bone marrow polychromatocytes. Acute and chronic combined actions of the two factors were investigated. Chromium ions (VI) enhanced mutagenic effects of gamma rays in both acute and chronic experiments. In the acute experiments lead ions (II) below 15 mg/kg body weight decreased the number of gamma-ray-induced micronuclei, while higher doses increased it. Chronic combined action of lead ions (III) and gamma rays inhibited mutagenic activity of radiation.